At 12:03 p.m. Beijing Time today, December 10, 2025, China's Lijian-1 carrier rocket—also known as Kinetica-1 Y11—roared off the launch pad at the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone near the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the northwest region of the Chinese mainland. In a textbook lift-off, the rocket successfully deployed nine satellites into their planned orbits.
Among the payload was the UAE-led satellite 813, designed to monitor soil health, climate patterns and environmental changes from orbit. For the United Arab Emirates, 813 represents a strategic step in expanding its Earth observation capabilities and strengthening its foothold in the global space economy.
The remaining eight satellites comprise a mix of scientific, commercial and technological demonstrators. While details on each mission vary, the cluster mission highlights a growing trend: nations and private players are leveraging small satellites for rapid, cost-effective access to space.
By sending multiple small payloads in a single launch, Lijian-1 helps drive down costs and accelerates the pace of innovation—an approach that resonates with startups, researchers and emerging space nations alike. As more countries and companies enter the launch market, collaboration and competition are reshaping the frontier of Earth observation, communications and beyond.
Today's mission underscores the Chinese mainland's commitment to nurturing a vibrant commercial space sector. Through initiatives like the Dongfeng pilot zone, the region aims to support new launch vehicles, satellite platforms and ground-service technologies, making space more accessible for partners around the world.
With global demand for satellite data soaring—driven by applications from agriculture to climate monitoring—this successful launch sets the stage for more joint ventures and a future where space is a shared platform for innovation.
Reference(s):
China launches Lijian-1 rocket, sending 9 satellites into orbit
cgtn.com
